Replacing front shocks and springs is a major suspension job. The front assembly is usually a strut unit, meaning the shock absorber and spring are combined. This involves handling high spring tension, so safety is critical.
The coil spring is under very high compression. If released incorrectly it can cause serious injury. Always use a proper spring compressor in good condition, or consider a professional if unsure.
New front strut assemblies (or shocks + springs separately)
Spring compressor (essential if reusing springs)
Jack and axle stands
Wheel nut wrench
Socket set and spanners
Penetrating oil
Torque wrench
Ball joint splitter (sometimes needed)
Pry bar (helpful)
Park on level ground.
Engage handbrake and select Park/gear.
Loosen wheel nuts slightly before lifting.
Jack up the car and secure it on axle stands.
Remove the wheel.
The front strut is attached at:
Top: inside the engine bay (strut top mount)
Bottom: steering knuckle/hub assembly
Depending on vehicle, you may need to remove:
Drop link from the strut
Brake hose brackets
ABS sensor cable brackets
Be careful not to stretch or damage brake lines.
Spray bolts with penetrating oil.
Support the hub so it doesn’t drop suddenly.
Remove the two large bolts connecting strut to hub.
The strut is now free at the bottom.
Open bonnet.
Locate strut top mount (usually 2–3 nuts).
Hold strut underneath while removing last nut.
Carefully remove the full strut assembly.
If you are replacing only the shock or spring:
Fit spring compressors evenly on opposite sides.
Tighten gradually and evenly until spring is loose in the seat.
Never point the assembly toward your body.
Remove the top centre nut holding the mount.
Remove top mount, bearing, and spring seat.
Take off old spring and shock absorber.
Inspect:
Top mount rubber
Bearing condition
Dust boot and bump stop
Replace worn parts.
Fit new shock absorber and/or spring.
Ensure spring is seated correctly in lower and upper cups.
Refit top mount and components in correct order.
Tighten centre nut to specification.
Then carefully release spring compressors slowly.
Position strut in wheel arch.
Loosely fit top mount nuts first.
Align bottom strut into hub assembly.
Refit and tighten lower bolts.
Reconnect drop link
Refit brake hose brackets
Reconnect ABS sensor wiring
Install wheel and hand-tighten nuts.
Lower vehicle to ground.
Torque wheel nuts in a star pattern.
Check steering moves freely lock-to-lock.
Listen for knocking or rubbing.
Inspect all bolts are tight.
Get a wheel alignment (tracking) done immediately.
New struts change suspension geometry.
Replace struts in pairs (left and right).
Replace top mounts and bearings at the same time if worn.
Mark bolt positions if alignment slots are used.
Never attempt spring removal without a proper compressor.
Never reuse damaged or rusty springs.
If the car sits unevenly after replacement, recheck spring seating immediately.